Yep, another reference to the 2007-08 school year. And, most likely, we'll have more back to school information and be talking about school again in the future.

However, we've got another topic to discuss today, but it does have something to do with school. If you plan on taking part in Arkansas' largest annual three-day yard sale with 160 miles of yard sales and flea markets today, Friday and Saturday, I would like to pass along some suggestions that will not only keep you out of an accident, but enable everybody to get those great bargains.

Drive like you're going to school. I mean, drive like you're taking your children to school - not like when you were in high school driving to first period or practice late.

Remember that this weekend U.S. Highway 64 from Fort Smith to Beebe turns into a giant flea market and will be packed with Bargains Galore in hundreds of front yards, parking lots and side roads. I've written about this the past few years, particularly since I saw that little girl dart in front of that parked minivan one of those extremely hot weekends.

Thank God it was a slow time, when there wasn't another car or truck or diesel hauling logs baring down the U.S. highway. Please, keep that in mind: It's a U.S. highway, not a parking lot. Although Pope County Sheriff Jay Winters pointed out Wednesday you still have to be careful these days in parking lots.

"Drivers need to be cautious about people running in and out of the roads, especially kids. Although adults could be the same way," Winters said. "They see something, and they're thinking about they've been wanting this really bad, start carrying it to their car, and they're not at a shopping mall. Watch for traffic. Also, maintain distance between cars in front and behind you. Somebody will be driving along and see something they want and might lock up their brakes and stop or might just jerk off to the right side of the road. Pay attention to speed and traffic."

The sheriff went on to say if at all possible, folks hosting yard sales and yard-sale enthusiasts should try to pull completely off the highway and try not to obstruct traffic.

"It's all about safety, making sure nobody gets hurt," Winters said. "It's a U.S. highway, not a county road. Drivers also really need to allow extra time. There will be traffic congestion and slower moving traffic. If you are going through these areas, be patient and expect to be slowed down, or there will be more potential for an accident and road rage. Treat these next three days [on the roads] like you're getting ready to start back to school."

It's hard to believe this is already the eighth year of Bargains Galore on 64, which could also be called the Hottest Weekend on Earth. That's my biggest beef. I can drive alternate routes so the traffic doesn't get to me, but why in the world is such a great event in the middle of August? What about Bargains Galore on 64 in October or April. Then, it could be in conjunction with getting ready for fall and winter, or spring cleaning or something - not in conjunction with heat exhaustion.

Until next time, look for those yellow sale signs. I haven't seen any yet. And, please be careful and stay cool out there.